How to Properly Maintain and Care for Your Marble Countertops

Marble countertops are a luxurious and timeless choice that can make any kitchen or bathroom look elegant and sophisticated. With their beautiful veining and smooth surface, marble is a popular pick for homeowners and designers. But, as stunning as marble is, it needs the right care to keep it looking great for years.

In this blog, we’ll share simple tips on how to take care of your marble countertops. From cleaning and sealing to preventing damage, this guide will help you keep your marble surfaces looking like new.

Why Marble Countertops Need Special Care

Marble is a natural stone, and while it is incredibly durable, it’s also more porous than other countertop materials like granite or quartz. This means that marble countertops are more susceptible to staining, scratching, and etching from acids, oils, and liquids. Proper care and maintenance are essential to protect your investment and maintain the beauty of your marble surfaces.

Regular cleaning and sealing are the two most important factors in ensuring your marble countertops remain beautiful and functional for years to come. Let’s explore some of the best practices for maintaining and caring for your marble countertops.

1. Regular Cleaning of Marble Countertops

Cleaning is one of the simplest ways to maintain your marble countertops, but it’s crucial to use the right cleaning techniques and products. Because marble is prone to damage from harsh chemicals, you should avoid using abrasive cleaners, bleach, or acidic cleaning products (like vinegar) that can etch the surface.

How to Clean Marble Countertops:

• Use a soft cloth: Always clean marble countertops with a soft cloth or microfiber towel to avoid scratching the surface.
• Mild soap and water: For everyday cleaning, use a mild dish soap diluted in warm water. Gently wipe down the countertop with a soft cloth, making sure to dry the surface immediately afterward to avoid water spots.
• Avoid abrasive scrubbing: Never use scouring pads, steel wool, or rough sponges, as they can scratch the surface of the marble.
• Wipe up spills immediately: Since marble is porous, it can absorb liquids like coffee, wine, and juice. Wipe up spills as soon as they occur to prevent staining.

Best for:

• Daily maintenance
• Cleaning spills or stains before they set in
• Removing dust and grime from the surface

2. Sealing Your Marble Countertops

Because marble is a porous material, it is highly susceptible to staining from oil, wine, and other common kitchen or bathroom products. To protect your marble surfaces, it’s essential to seal them regularly. Sealing forms a protective barrier that helps prevent liquids from penetrating the stone and causing permanent stains.

How to Seal Marble Countertops:

• Choose the right sealer: Use a penetrating sealer designed specifically for marble. This will protect the stone from stains while allowing it to breathe.
• Test the surface: To see if your marble needs resealing, sprinkle a few drops of water on the countertop. If the water beads up, the surface is properly sealed. If it soaks in, it’s time to reseal.
• Apply the sealer: Clean the surface thoroughly before applying the sealer. Use a clean, soft cloth to apply the sealer in even strokes. Allow the sealer to soak in for a few minutes, then wipe off any excess.
• Reapply regularly: Depending on your marble countertop’s use, you should reseal it every 6–12 months. High-traffic areas may need resealing more frequently.

Best for:

• Preventing stains from liquids and oils
• Protecting high-use areas like kitchen countertops
• Ensuring long-lasting durability and beauty

3. Avoiding Damage from Acidic Substances

One of the biggest challenges with marble countertops is their vulnerability to acidic substances like citrus, wine, vinegar, and certain cleaning products. These substances can etch the surface, leaving permanent marks or dull spots.

How to Protect Your Marble from Acidic Damage:

• Use cutting boards: Always use a cutting board when preparing food, especially when working with acidic foods like tomatoes or citrus.
• Place coasters and trivets: Use coasters under glasses and trivets under hot pots or pans to protect your marble from acidic beverages or extreme heat.
• Clean spills immediately: If an acidic liquid does spill, clean it up immediately with a soft cloth and mild soap and water.

Best for:

• Protecting from acid etching and surface damage
• Preserving the polish of your marble countertops
• Keeping your kitchen looking pristine

4. Preventing Scratches and Scuffs

While marble is a hard stone, it can still be susceptible to scratches and scuffs from everyday use. To protect your marble surfaces, take steps to avoid direct contact with sharp objects and abrasives.

How to Prevent Scratches:

• Use placemats: When preparing food or placing items on your countertop, always use placemats or coasters to prevent scratches.
• Avoid dragging heavy items: Never drag heavy pots, pans, or appliances across your marble surface. Always lift them to avoid scratching the surface.
• Keep sharp objects away: Avoid cutting directly on the marble surface. Use a cutting board to prevent knife scratches.

Best for:

• Protecting the surface from scratches
• Ensuring a smooth, polished finish for years to come
• Maintaining the appearance of your marble

5. Polishing Your Marble Countertops

Over time, your marble countertops may lose their shine, but the good news is that you can restore their luster with proper polishing. Polishing your marble countertops enhances their beauty, removes small imperfections, and gives the surface a fresh look.

How to Polish Marble Countertops:

• Use a marble polish: Choose a marble-specific polish that is designed to enhance the natural shine of the stone.
• Apply with a soft cloth: Gently buff the marble surface with a soft cloth in a circular motion. Avoid using harsh abrasives that could damage the surface.
• Buff to shine: After polishing, buff the surface to a smooth, shiny finish.

Best for:

• Restoring the shine of your marble countertops
• Maintaining a beautiful and glossy surface
• Enhancing the appearance of your kitchen or bathroom

Final Thoughts: Keep Your Marble Countertops Looking Pristine

Marble countertops are an investment in both beauty and functionality. With the proper care and maintenance, they can last a lifetime, adding a touch of luxury and elegance to your kitchen or bathroom. By following these marble care tips—including regular cleaning, sealing, and protecting against stains and scratches—you can ensure your countertops stay looking beautiful for years to come.

Ready to Get Started?

Protect and maintain your marble countertops with high-quality care solutions. Contact us for more information on our marble countertop products and care services, or to place a bulk order for your next project. Want to ensure you’re choosing the best materials for your next renovation? Feel free to request a sample today!